New York vs Arizona: Which Is Better to Live In?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. Arizona is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100.7 vs 107.9), has a 5.3-point lower tax burden. New York scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 52% lower in Arizona ($1,722 vs. $3,615 in New York).
- Residential electricity price is 42% lower in Arizona (15.32¢/kWh vs. 26.39¢/kWh in New York).
- Total tax burden is 39% lower in Arizona (8.22% vs. 13.56% in New York).
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +7.1 pts | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | 47.8#38 of 50 · C | +7.1 pts | — | NY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.2 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | +7.2 pts+7% | 100 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$23,655 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$23,655 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$108,724 (+26%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | +$108,724+26% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +5.34 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +5.34 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -10 (-3%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -10-3% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$4,334 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | +$4,334+5% | $80,903 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +9.4 pts | 85.62% | NY |
| Life expectancyGap +2.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +2.8 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -89,303 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -89,303 | -33 | AZ |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is New York or Arizona better to live in?
New York scores higher overall: 54.9 to 47.8 out of 100, #29 of 50 against #38. New York leads 5 of 11 categories, Arizona leads 4, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +3.7 | 15% | 46.3#25 · B | 42.6#31 · C+ | +3.7 pts | NY |
| Safety12% of scoregap -0.2 | 12% | 63.0#34 · C+ | 63.2#32 · C+ | -0.2 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap +30 | 12% | 79.7#3 · A+ | 49.7#31 · C+ | +30 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap +24 | 12% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 32.6#47 · D | +24 pts | NY |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -23.1 | 10% | 37.2#47 · D | 60.3#35 · C | -23.1 pts | AZ |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -14.9 | 8% | 44.5#42 · C | 59.4#25 · B | -14.9 pts | AZ |
| Growth7% of scoregap -34.3 | 7% | 14.0#48 · D | 48.3#16 · B+ | -34.3 pts | AZ |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -0.8 | 7% | 52.6#20 · B | 53.4#18 · B+ | -0.8 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +25.1 | 7% | 49.4#5 · A+ | 24.3#42 · C | +25.1 pts | NY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -7.5 | 6% | 30.2#23 · B | 37.7#16 · B+ | -7.5 pts | AZ |
| Environment4% of scoregap +32.5 | 4% | 58.4#7 · A | 25.9#44 · D | +32.5 pts | NY |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is New York cheaper than Arizona?
Arizona is cheaper: cost of living index 100.7 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $23,655 more a year in Arizona after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.2 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | +7.2 pts+7% | 100 | AZ |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +11.9 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +11.9 pts+12% | 100 | AZ |
| Residential electricity priceGap +11.07¢ (+72%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | +11.07¢+72% | 17.84¢/kWh | AZ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.00 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | -$1.00-5% | $15.83/Mcf | NY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.63 (-17%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | -$0.63-17% | $3.32/gal | NY |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,594 (+28%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | +$4,594+28% | $15,633 | AZ |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$9,486 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$29,757costs $45,244 | -$9,486 | AZ |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$11,661 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$19,775costs $55,225 | -$11,661 | AZ |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$23,655 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | -$19,573costs $94,573 | -$23,655 | AZ |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$10,779 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$33,427costs $41,573 | -$10,779 | AZ |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$12,894 | $40,598 | $27,704 | +$12,894 | AZ |
| ChildcareGap +$9,188 | $41,956 | $32,768 | +$9,188 | AZ |
| UtilitiesGap +$345 | $5,179 | $4,834 | +$345 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$1,340 | $12,085 | $10,745 | +$1,340 | AZ |
| TransportationGap -$1,980 | $9,963 | $11,943 | -$1,980 | NY |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,869 | $8,448 | $6,579 | +$1,869 | AZ |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Arizona?
Arizona collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.22% vs 13.56%. New York has high across the board; Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +5.34 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +5.34 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +12.28 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +12.28 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.08 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +1.08 pts | 1.02% | AZ |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.02 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | +0.02 pts | 6.66% | Even |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Arizona?
Homes cost 26% more in New York: a typical home value of $526,714 in New York vs $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of income in New York and $104,042 in Arizona; the median household earns $85,820 and $81,486.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$108,724 (+26%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | +$108,724+26% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Home value change, one yearGap +6.7 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +6.7 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,893 (+110%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | +$1,893+110% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$36,667 (+35%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | +$36,667+35% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1x (+20%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | +1x+20% | 4.6x | AZ |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| NY | AZ | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,710 | $2,151 |
| Income needed vs. median | +64% | +28% |
| Five-year change | +29.5% | +9.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cold |
| Largest metro | New York | Phoenix |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in New York or Arizona?
New York pays more: median household income $85,820 vs $81,486, with unemployment at 4.3% in New York and 4.3% in Arizona. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$4,334 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | +$4,334+5% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$43,204 (+73%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | +$43,204+73% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Population growthGap -0.88 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.88 pts | +0.51% | AZ |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | NY | AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $231,909$250,462 in New York | $142,521$143,946 in Phoenix | NY |
| Software Developers | $191,445$206,761 in New York | $125,121$126,372 in Phoenix | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $267,162$288,535 in New York | $221,024$223,234 in Phoenix | NY |
| Electricians | $95,830$103,496 in New York | $57,147$57,718 in Phoenix | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $106,981$115,540 in New York | $73,518$74,253 in Phoenix | NY |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,051$126,415 in New York | $94,277$95,220 in Phoenix | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $103,379$111,649 in New York | $84,378$85,222 in Phoenix | NY |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $122,114$131,883 in New York | $103,475$104,510 in Phoenix | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,203$53,139 in New York | $32,432$32,756 in Phoenix | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $90,791$98,054 in New York | $75,251$76,004 in Phoenix | NY |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,414$81,447 in New York | $61,348$61,961 in Phoenix | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $64,892$70,083 in New York | $51,113$51,624 in Phoenix | NY |
| Civil Engineers | $110,483$119,322 in New York | $97,481$98,456 in Phoenix | NY |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,845$71,113 in New York | $53,275$53,808 in Phoenix | NY |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,227$81,245 in New York | $64,308$64,951 in Phoenix | NY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,430$70,664 in New York | $55,599$56,155 in Phoenix | NY |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $65,024$70,226 in New York | $56,367$56,931 in Phoenix | NY |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,384$58,735 in New York | $45,927$46,386 in Phoenix | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,636$82,767 in New York | $68,674$69,361 in Phoenix | NY |
| Construction Laborers | $47,986$51,825 in New York | $42,890$43,319 in Phoenix | NY |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is New York safer than Arizona?
Violent crime is about the same: 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 378 in Arizona (FBI). Property crime runs 1,575 and 1,514 per 100,000.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -10 (-3%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -10-3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +61 (+4%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | +61+4% | 1,535 | Even |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- White Plains, NY115 violent per 100K
- Marana, AZ61 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, New York or Arizona?
New York scores higher for education (#30 of 50 vs #47), with high school graduation rates of 86.7% and 77.3%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #31); life expectancy is 79.5 years in New York and 76.7 in Arizona.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +9.4 pts | 85.62% | NY |
| Life expectancyGap +2.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +2.8 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.8 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | -3.8 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -5.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | -5.3 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -9 pts (-20%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | -9 pts-20% | 38.8 | NY |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
- Peoria, AZeducation score 95.1
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: New York #30, Arizona #47. Health: New York #3, Arizona #31.
Are more people moving from New York to Arizona, or from Arizona to New York?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 5,077 people (±1,804) moving from New York to Arizona and 2,936 (±1,141) the other way, a net gain of about 2,141 people for Arizona beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +70,565 (+58%) | 192,240#4 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | +70,565+58% | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +159,868 (+153%) | 264,227#48 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | +159,868+153% | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -89,303 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -89,303 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.9 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -5.9 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,705 (+8%) | $94,202#6 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | +$6,705+8% | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$30,390 (+40%) | $105,983#4 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | +$30,390+40% | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -11.0 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -11.0 | AZ |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, New York or Arizona?
New York is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts; Arizona is the better fit for remote workers, young professionals, and small business. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -16 places | #29score 62.6 | #45score 47.8 | -16 places | NY |
| RetireesGap -12 places | #25score 62 | #37score 54.6 | -12 places | NY |
| Remote WorkersGap +9 places | #44score 41.4 | #35score 47.2 | +9 places | AZ |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +9 places | #40score 42.8 | #31score 51 | +9 places | AZ |
| Small BusinessGap +14 places | #44score 37.5 | #30score 52.2 | +14 places | AZ |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -7 places | #21score 50.9 | #28score 42.7 | -7 places | NY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesNew York (#29 vs #45)
- RetireesNew York (#25 vs #37)
- Remote WorkersArizona (#35 vs #44)
- Young ProfessionalsArizona (#31 vs #40)
- Small BusinessArizona (#30 vs #44)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew York (#21 vs #28)
Which cities stand out in New York and Arizona?
New York has 20 tracked cities and Arizona has 23; the largest are New York and Phoenix. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New York8,483,844 people | Phoenix1,642,323 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Levittownscore 74.8 | Queen Creekscore 66.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | White Plains115 violent per 100K | Marana61 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Uticacost index 92.7 | Yumacost index 92.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 | Tempewalkability 14.2 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Uticacounty median AQI 27 | Lake Havasu Citycounty median AQI 17 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Levittown94.2% graduation rate | Peoria95.1% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Levittownmedian income $146,068 | Queen Creekmedian income $141,978 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Yonkers+0.5% growth | Queen Creek+8.2% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New York and Arizona compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New York carries AA credit rating and Arizona AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +14 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | +14 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -27.7 (-88%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | -27.7-88% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap -23.5 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | -23.5 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.8 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | +6.8 min | 25.2 min | AZ |
| Commuters using public transitGap +23.1 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | +23.1 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -4.5 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -7.7 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | -7.7 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap +18 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | +18 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,940 (+271%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | +$5,940+271% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.3 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | -6.3 pts | +4.66% | AZ |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New York AA, Arizona AA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
New York vs Arizona: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. New York is ahead on 16 of 51, Arizona on 26, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New YorkNY | ArizonaAZ | GapNY−AZ | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +12,378,609 (+162%) · US 6.8 million | 20 million#4 of 50 | 7.6 million#14 of 50 | +12,378,609+162% | 6.8 million | NY |
| Median household incomeGap +$4,334 (+5%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $81,486#20 of 50 | +$4,334+5% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap 0 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4.3%#35 of 50 | 0 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.88 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.89%#8 of 50 | -0.88 pts | +0.51% | AZ |
| GDP per capitaGap +$43,204 (+73%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $58,823#33 of 50 | +$43,204+73% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.6 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +3.1%#7 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +1.91% | AZ |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -10 (-3%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 378#36 of 50 | -10-3% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +61 (+4%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,514#29 of 50 | +61+4% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +9.4 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 77.3%#49 of 50 | +9.4 pts | 85.62% | NY |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 234#38 of 50 | 232#45 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 270#33 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +7 · US 214 | 215#26 of 50 | 208#45 of 50 | +7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 254#39 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 76.7#30 of 50 | +2.8 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.8 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 33.3%#21 of 50 | -3.8 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -5.3 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 10.3%#44 of 50 | -5.3 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$108,724 (+26%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $417,990#34 of 50 | +$108,724+26% | $368,697 | AZ |
| Home value change, one yearGap +6.7 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | -1.1%#46 of 50 | +6.7 pts | +1.2% | NY |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,893 (+110%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $1,722#25 of 50 | +$1,893+110% | $1,948 | AZ |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$36,667 (+35%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $104,042#30 of 50 | +$36,667+35% | $100,006 | AZ |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.2 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 100.7#35 of 50 | +7.2 pts+7% | 100 | AZ |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1x (+20%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 5.1x#35 of 50 | +1x+20% | 4.6x | AZ |
| Residential electricity priceGap +11.07¢ (+72%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 15.32¢/kWh#25 of 50 | +11.07¢+72% | 17.84¢/kWh | AZ |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.00 (-5%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $18.58/Mcf#40 of 50 | -$1.00-5% | $15.83/Mcf | NY |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.63 (-17%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.80/gal#44 of 50 | -$0.63-17% | $3.32/gal | NY |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +11.9 pts (+12%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 95.4#10 of 50 | +11.9 pts+12% | 100 | AZ |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,594 (+28%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $16,384#30 of 50 | +$4,594+28% | $15,633 | AZ |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +5.34 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 8.22%#17 of 50 | +5.34 pts | 8.74% | AZ |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +12.28 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 2.5%#11 of 50 | +12.28 pts | 5.46% | AZ |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.08 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 0.56%#11 of 50 | +1.08 pts | 1.02% | AZ |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.02 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 8.52%#40 of 50 | +0.02 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 90#35 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -7.7 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 11.5%#21 of 50 | -7.7 pts | 12.39% | AZ |
| Pension funded ratioGap +18 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 72%#30 of 50 | +18 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$5,940 (+271%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $2,190#14 of 50 | +$5,940+271% | $3,506 | AZ |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.3 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | +4.8%#25 of 50 | -6.3 pts | +4.66% | AZ |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -9 pts (-20%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 45#48 of 50 | -9 pts-20% | 38.8 | NY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +14 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 16%#26 of 50 | +14 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -27.7 (-88%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 31.5#30 of 50 | -27.7-88% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap -23.5 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 38.6%#8 of 50 | -23.5 pts | 17.16% | AZ |
| Mean travel time to workGap +6.8 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 26.4 min#31 of 50 | +6.8 min | 25.2 min | AZ |
| Commuters using public transitGap +23.1 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 1.1%#24 of 50 | +23.1 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -4.5 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 16.3%#4 of 50 | -4.5 pts | 12.28% | AZ |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.5 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 93.6%#15 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 92.67% | AZ |
| Households moving inIRSGap +70,565 (+58%) · US 78,682 | 192,240#4 of 50 | 121,675#10 of 50 | +70,565+58% | 78,682 | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +159,868 (+153%) · US 78,715 | 264,227#48 of 50 | 104,359#38 of 50 | +159,868+153% | 78,715 | AZ |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -89,303 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | +17,316#6 of 50 | -89,303 | -33 | AZ |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.9 · US +0.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | +2.3#10 of 50 | -5.9 | +0.4 | AZ |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$6,705 (+8%) · US $77,690 | $94,202#6 of 50 | $87,497#11 of 50 | +$6,705+8% | $77,690 | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$30,390 (+40%) · US $77,024 | $105,983#4 of 50 | $75,593#21 of 50 | +$30,390+40% | $77,024 | NY |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -11.0 · US +1.1 | -6.9#50 of 50 | +4.1#12 of 50 | -11.0 | +1.1 | AZ |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$23,655 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$19,573#29 of 50 | -$23,655 | -$11,758 | AZ |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$9,486 · US +$31,418 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$29,757#30 of 50 | -$9,486 | +$31,418 | AZ |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$10,779 · US +$35,970 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$33,427#29 of 50 | -$10,779 | +$35,970 | AZ |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the New York and Arizona numbers say when read together.
New York ranks higher overall
New York leads 5 of the 11 categories to Arizona's 4, with 2 even; Arizona is ahead on growth and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, New York is ahead on 16 and Arizona on 26.
Arizona is cheaper day to day
Arizona's cost of living index is 100.7 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $526,714 in New York and $417,990 in Arizona. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 a year after typical costs in New York and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Arizona takes a smaller share in taxes
New York collects 13.56% of income in state and local taxes (high across the board); Arizona collects 8.22% (low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax).
New York pays more
Median household income is $85,820 in New York and $81,486 in Arizona, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.3%. Violent crime runs 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 378 in Arizona.
People move to Arizona on net
5,077 people moved to Arizona from New York in the latest Census release, against 2,936 going the other way.
New York fits families and retirees better
For families, New York ranks #29 of 50 and Arizona #45; for retirees, New York ranks #25 and Arizona #37.
New York vs Arizona: frequently asked questions
Is New York or Arizona better to live in?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Arizona #38 as of the latest release. Arizona is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100.7 vs 107.9), has a 5.3-point lower tax burden. New York scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 4.
Is New York cheaper than Arizona?
Arizona is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 100.7 vs 107.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$43,228 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in New York, and -$19,573 in Arizona. The typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $417,990 in Arizona.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Arizona?
Arizona has the lower tax burden: 8.22% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.56% in New York. New York's top income tax rate is 14.78%, its effective property tax rate 1.64% and its combined sales tax 8.54%; Arizona's are 2.5%, 0.56% and 8.52%.
Is New York safer than Arizona?
New York and Arizona have similar violent crime rates: 368 vs 378 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. New York ranks #35 of 50 for violent crime and Arizona #36. Property crime is 1,575 per 100,000 in New York and 1,514 in Arizona. The safest tracked cities are White Plains, NY, and Marana, AZ.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Arizona?
Homes are 26% more expensive in New York: the typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $417,990 in Arizona. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of household income in New York and $104,042 in Arizona, against median incomes of $85,820 and $81,486.
Do people earn more in New York or Arizona?
New York pays more: median household income is $85,820 vs $81,486 in Arizona, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in New York and 4.3% in Arizona. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Arizona's in 0.
Are more people moving from New York to Arizona or from Arizona to New York?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 5,077 people (±1,804) moving from New York to Arizona and 2,936 (±1,141) the other way, a net gain of about 2,141 people for Arizona beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, New York or Arizona?
New York is the better fit for retirees: #25 of 50 on the retiree index vs #37 for Arizona. New York has high across the board; Arizona has low income tax, low property tax, high sales tax. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$22,648 left after typical costs in New York and +$33,427 in Arizona.
Which is better for families, New York or Arizona?
New York is the better fit for families: #29 of 50 on the families index vs #45 for Arizona. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in New York and $16,384 in Arizona. High school graduation rates are 86.7% and 77.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 after typical costs in New York and -$19,573 in Arizona.
Is Arizona better than New York?
No: New York ranks higher than Arizona overall, #29 of 50 vs #38, with a composite score of 54.9 to 47.8. New York leads 5 of 11 categories and Arizona leads 4, including growth and affordability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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